Save
There's just something about digging into a chilled bowl of watermelon salad when it's hot outside. You get juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, herby freshness, crunchy pistachios, and a bit of salty feta all tossed together. It's so simple but always gets folks talking at picnics or during lunch breaks.
The first time I made this for a family get-together, everyone asked how it was put together. Even the pickiest ones got seconds, which made me feel like I'd won at summer cooking.
Fresh Ingredients List
- Pistachios, toasted: bring a nutty, rich crunch. Taste one first and make sure it's not soggy or stale.
- Feta, crumbled: tangy, creamy bits. You can leave it out or use a vegan swap if you want. Grab real Greek feta for best results.
- Fresh mint, chopped: this adds a blast of cool, herbal flavor. Go for the most fragrant bunch you find.
- Italian parsley: brings in green flavor and a leafy type of bite. Look for deep green leaves.
- Red onion: paper-thin slices for a punch of flavor and a pretty look. Soak the pieces in cold water if sharp onions aren't your thing.
- Watermelon, cut into cubes: tasty and super juicy. Pick one that's weighty and gives a hollow thump if you tap it.
- English or Turkish cucumbers: clean, crunchy, and mild. Gently squeeze and pick ones that are not bruised.
- Olive oil: adds a smooth finish. Choose extra virgin for its richer taste.
- Salt: brings flavors forward. Use flaky or kosher types for better control.
- Balsamic or red wine vinegar: tangy and balances out all the sweet notes. Try both and use whichever one you prefer.
- Cracked pepper: wakes up the salad. Use fresh cracked for that upper hit.
- Allspice or a pinch of clove: totally optional but gives depth. Just a teeny bit does the trick.
Simple Prep Steps
- Sample and Finish Up:
- Have a quick bite. Add a bit more salt if it feels flat, especially if you're skipping the feta.
- Pile it Up:
- Start with your watermelon, cucumber, and onion at the bottom of a big bowl. Sprinkle on the herbs, nuts, and cheese over everything. It keeps the salad fluffy and not weighed down.
- Chop the Greens:
- Grab your mint and parsley, chop them up just before mixing in, so the flavors really pop fresh.
- Drizzle and Mix:
- Splash in your oil and vinegar. Add salt, pepper, and a touch of clove if using. Toss it gently so your melon stays in nice chunks.
- Prep the Main Stuff:
- Cube up the watermelon and cucumbers, and slice the red onion super thin. Pat everything dry—that way your salad won’t be watery.
Save
The pistachios in this salad always make me think of my grandma. She’d add them to every summery dish just to jazz things up. And that tart feta goes perfectly with juicy watermelon—it's a classic in Mediterranean cooking for a reason.
Keeping It Fresh
It’s definitely tastiest right after you make it, but you can chop your melon and cukes ahead and keep them chilled. If you need to prep in advance, wait to add herbs, nuts, and dressing until just before you eat. Leftovers will keep in a lidded container in the fridge for about a day, though it’s best while crisp right after mixing.
Swap Options
Out of pistachios? Use almonds or walnuts instead, toasting them first if you like. Wanna skip dairy? Ditch the feta or sub in a vegan cheese. Switch up the fresh herbs with dill or basil to tweak the flavors.
Serving Ideas
This dish shows off as a side with grilled chicken or kebabs at a picnic. It's also awesome solo for lunch with some bread, or you can start a dinner party with a big bowl of it.
Save
Tradition & Background
Mixing fresh fruit with salty cheese and herbs goes way back in Greek and Middle Eastern summer meals. Folks pair sweet, salty, and herby stuff to stay cool and eat well when the weather gets hot.
Recipe FAQs
- → Is feta cheese required?
Nope, you can leave feta out. It'll still taste bright and awesome and it's easy to keep it dairy-free.
- → Which cucumbers are best here?
English or Turkish types work great. They're crisp and not too strong.
- → Can I put this together ahead of time?
Yep, a few hours early is fine. Just hold off on the extra herbs and nuts until it’s time to serve. That keeps things crispy.
- → Do I really need vinegar?
Vinegar brings a nice zing that cuts the watermelon’s sweetness. Try red wine or white balsamic—both work well.
- → Can I swap out the herbs?
For sure! Basil or cilantro changes up the taste, but mint and parsley keep things super fresh.